Incline rebounder

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates generally to an inclined exercise device suitable for use for users seeking to exercise the core and leg muscles on a device that may closely mimic the actions of an alpine skier. The inclined exercise device relates to a platform disposed atop a rebounding component. The dual inclined exercise device more specifically relates to a first and a second platform set at opposing angles to each other and atop a first and second compressible element. Further, a base with various adjustable mechanisms is disclosed, providing further versatility and personalization of the claimed invention. For example an adjusting member for adjusting the forward tilt of the claimed invention is described. Other features such as a restraining element and a hinge of the claimed invention are also disclosed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/433,692 filed Jan. 18, 2011, entitled Dual Incline Spring Board Exercise Rebounder, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The field of invention generally relates to an exercise device focusing on the core and leg muscles. More specifically, the field of invention relates to an exercise device for sports such as alpine skiing and tennis, and for the physical therapy benefits on a rebounding device.

2. Description of Related Art

The present invention generally relates to an exercise device with a compressible element and a platform which provides multiple benefits over the prior art.

The benefits of jumping and bouncing as part of an exercise routine are well-known. The gravitational forces acting upon the body influence hundreds of muscles and body cells simultaneously and heighten a person's balance and equilibrium. These exercise routines provide tremendous core and leg exercises as well as cardiovascular benefits. It is well known in the art that jumping and bouncing back and forth and from side to side between inclined trampolines is a beneficial exercise for skiing and other sports.

Unfortunately, inclined trampolines suffer the disadvantages of having an outer perimeter mass of noisy springs or cords attached to a rigid frame that adds considerable girth and is uncomfortable and harmful when struck during an unintended misstep or fall. This outer frame is a known hazard to experienced trampoline users. Another disadvantage of the traditional mini trampoline is a negative pronation of the ankle joints due to the dimpling or curvature of the stretched trampoline fabric acting upon the foot when fully depressed.

The present invention includes a compressible element under a platform which has the advantage of eliminating the space between the springs or cords attached to a rigid frame and does not result in negative pronation of the ankles joints. The platform provides more support for the ankles than the stretched trampoline fabric.

Further the present invention provides a significant amount of versatility and personalization. The user can choose the compressive force of the compressible element, increase the angle of a forward tilt and can optionally set the distance between a first and second platform.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide for multiple embodiments of an exercise device generally having a compressible element and a platform disposed over the compressible element for use by for example, sports enthusiasts, such as skiing and tennis enthusiasts, and for those engaging in physical therapy.

For example, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a first compressible element; a second compressible element; a first platform disposed over the first compressible element, the first platform having an interior portion and an exterior portion, wherein the first platform is downwardly inclined towards the interior portion; and a second platform disposed over the second compressible element, the second platform having an interior portion and an exterior portion, wherein the second platform is downwardly inclined towards the interior portion of the second platform and the interior portion of the second platform is adjacent to the inner edge of the first platform.

In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first or second platforms is downwardly inclined towards the interior portion at about a 15-25 degrees relative to the horizontal.

In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first and second compressible element is a ball, an air spring, a compression coil spring, or a tension spring.

In another exemplary embodiment, the exercise device includes a base having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first and second compressible element is disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the base.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Embodiments of the invention will be described and shown in detail by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is front overhead perspective view of an embodiment of the dual inclined exercise device in accordance with the instant invention.

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the dual inclined exercise device as depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an elevational view of an the embodiment of the dual inclined exercise device, depicted in FIG. 1, with an outline of a person PI performing a lateral jumping exercise with ski poles in hand.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

With reference to FIG. 1-3, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an exercise device comprising first compressible ball 101 and a second compressible ball 103, and a first platform 105 and a second platform 107. The first platform 105 and the second platform 107 are configured and designed to accommodate the weight and torsion stress of an athlete performing multiple jumping related exercises.

As depicted in FIG. 1, the first platform 105 is disposed over a first compressible ball 101. The first compressible ball 101 may also include one or more compressible balls or other compressible elements providing similar elasticity, stability and compression such as cylindrical airsprings arranged under the first platform 105. A plurality of balls or other compressible elements can be arranged in multiple rows or in any other formation so that substantially all of the compressible balls maintain contact with a bottom surface of the first platform. 105 Similarly, the second platform 107 is disposed over the second compressible ball 103. The second compressible ball 103 can comprise of a plurality of balls or other compressible elements providing similar elasticity, stability and compression arranged under the second platform 105, so that substantially all of the compressible elements maintain contact with the surface of the second platform 107. Additionally, the first platform 105 further comprises an exterior portion and an interior portion, and is arranged such that the first platform 105 is downwardly inclined to the interior portion. The second platform 107, comprising an interior portion and an exterior portion, is similarly arranged in a mirror image to the first platform 105. Furthermore, the interior portion of the first platform 105 and the interior portion of the second platform 107 are adjacent. The angle at which the first and second platforms (105 and 107) are inclined towards the interior portion of the first and second platform (105 and 107) is determined by the size and shape of the compressible ball, giving the appearance of a valley shape. Preferably, the angle between the first platform 105 and the horizontal is between 15 and 25 degrees, but the angle can be varied, for example to accommodate a child, etc., without varying from the scope of the invention. The angle between the second platform 107 and horizontal is between 15 and 25 degrees. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the first and second platform (105 and 107) are equally angled relative to the horizontal. In another exemplary embodiment, the first and second platform (105 and 107) may be set at different angles, without varying from the scope of the invention.

The first and second platforms (105 and 107) can be, for example, a board or a semi-rigid platform. The semi rigid platform or board can be formed from commercially available laminated wood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), cellular PVC sheet product or any planar sheet product that would be lightweight, flexible and durable. Alternatively, the first and second platform (105 and 107) can be formed from a laminated wood product or similar flexible or similar flexible spring-like material such as ski and snow board sections rigidly connected. The first and second platforms (105 and 107) would be of sufficient length, height and width to accommodate a person performing the exercises. Additionally, at least one opening 121 may be included in the surface of a platform (105 and 107) to accommodate one end of a ski pole.

In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second platform (105 and 107) may also include a shock absorbing layer 119. The shock absorbing layer 119 is disposed on the surface of either the first and second platform (105 and 107) that the user comes into contact with. The shock absorbing layer 119 is designed to soften the impact of a user performing the exercises. The shock absorbing layer 119 is of sufficient width, length and thickness to accommodate a person performing the intended exercises, and is preferably made using closed cell EVA foam rubber type padding or other padded carpeting or mat. The material should be shock absorbent, sound deadening, waterproof, not slippery when wet and durable. The shock absorbing layer 119 would be connected to a surface of at least one of the first and second platforms (105 and 107) with an appropriate adhesive, glue or similar method that is compatible with the materials and provides a secure connection.

The first and second compressible elements (101 and 103) can be preferably a ball that is used to give the exercise device its rebound and bounce. The ball diameter may be varied, preferably between 6-12 inches in diameter. By choosing a different size ball, the incline angle of the first and second platform will be varied. In the preferred embodiment, the ball would be a commercially available natural rubber or an equivalent air filled ball that provides the device with an adjustable, inexpensive, smooth and quiet operation. Such types of balls that are generally known that could be used in conjunction with the present invention include standard playground balls, exercise balls or similarly kick balls. The balls could be inflated between 0.5 psi and 2 psi, depending on the preference of the user. Furthermore, the air pressure in the ball is adjustable according to the user's needs based upon body weight and desired rebound effect. In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is a multiple air filled vessel suitably sized and shaped for the intended purpose. In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is a combination of common or custom designed compression type coil springs or tension springs. In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) could be an inflatable air spring or similar element. In another embodiment at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is a multiple inflatable rubber tube or similar vessel that would allow the user to easily adjust and monitor the incline angle, air pressure and resultant rebound. In another embodiment, at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is a multiple rubber bungee cords or similar flexible tubing to hold the platform and providing the bounce and desired angle. In another embodiment at least one of the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is any combination of known or unknown magnetic resistance, offset linkage with spring type device, compressed gas or other devices yielding the desired effect. Other embodiments are possible using a compressible element that would be known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

In another embodiment, the first and second compressible element (101 and 103) is disposed between a first and second portion of a base 109. The base 109 can further comprise a midframe 113 that provides a pivot axis and a mounting base for the inner edge of the first platform 105 and the inner end of the second platform 107. The midframe 113 is preferably be configured from metal tubing or similar material with the structural and dimensional performance required. The base 109 further comprises of a perimeter frame 127. The upper and lower ends of the midframe 113, in the preferred embodiment, are connected to the perimeter frame 127. Such connection can be made by employing standard welding techniques or by any other permanent connection.

In another embodiment, the dual inclined exercise device includes a base 109 further comprising at least one compressible element support 115. The compressible element support 115 is disposed under at least one of the first and second compressible balls (101 and 103). The compressible element support 115 supports at least one of the first and second compressible balls (101 and 103) and can be sized to fit about the perimeter frame 127. The compressible element support 115 may be, for example, a ball cradle platform or a panel. The compressible element support 115 is fabricated from, for example, sheet metal or other sufficiently strong material with a thickness suitable for the intended support. Furthermore, the compressible element support 115 can be configured to support multiple rows of at least one of the first and second compressible balls (101 and 103). For example, if the compressible element support 115 is a ball cradle platform and the first compressible element 101 is a rubber ball, multiple sphere or trough shapes can be stamped or formed into the platforms as illustrated in FIG. 2 to cradle and support the ball during use. The compressible element support 115 is preferably configured to be welded or attached in a permanent manner to the perimeter frame of the base to establish a permanent connection. Alternatively, the compressible element 127 support can be hingeably connected to the perimeter frame 115 or to the base 109 to increase or decrease an angle of incline of at least one of the first and second platforms relative to the horizontal. The compressible element support 115 may be constructed from, for example, a commercially available laminated structural wood, PVC, or other similar product suitable sized and shaped to fit within the perimeter frame 115.

As shown in FIG. 2, the dual inclined exercise device may include non-slip components 129 for the exercise device that prevents sound transmission during use. The non-slip components 129 are attached to the bottom of the base, preferably at each corner using an appropriate adhesive and/or fastener for these types of materials. The non-slip component 129 is preferably a non-slip pad that is capable of providing a cushion for the base. Each non-slip component may be of any sufficient size, thickness and material common for said use such as masticated rubber or polyurethane foam rubber.

As shown in FIGS. 1 & 3, the dual inclined exercise device may also include one or more handles 125 of suitable size, shape and material in a convenient location to allow for easy movement and transport of the exercise device. Additionally, the dual inclined exercise device may include one or more wheels 123 to permit convenient wheeled portability of the device. The wheel 123 is preferably of sufficient size and quantity for the intended purpose and positioned to allow the wheel 123 to contact the floor when the present invention is lifted by the handle 125. In the preferred embodiment, the wheel 123 is coupled to a lateral side of the base 109 and handle 125 is coupled to a opposite lateral side of the base. The wheel 123 is preferably made from rubber.

As depicted in FIGSs 1 & 2, a restraining element 111 may be provided to limit the bounce back action of the first and second platforms (105 and 107) when in use. By way of description the structural relationship between a restraining element 111 and the first platform 105 will be described. It is understood that such structural relationship is equally applicable to the restraining element 111 and the second platform 107. The restraining element 111 is coupled to the first platform 105 at one end. The other end of the restraining element 111 may be coupled to the first compressible element 101 using a bracket 108. Alternatively, the other end of the restraining element may be coupled to the base 109. The restraining element 111 may comprise of a restraining strap 108 and a bracket 112 attached to one of the first or second platform (105 or 107), the bracket 112 adapted to receive the restraining strap 108. A second bracket 110 can also be used to couple the restraining strap 108 to the base 109. Additionally, the restraining element 111 may be manually adjustable.

Alternatively, an adjusting member (not shown) may be provided to control the forward tilt of the base 109 and the platform (105 and 107). Such an arrangement is beneficial to allow a user to experience a forward lean while jumping back and forth between the platforms, further enhancing a user's experience while using the present invention. The adjusting member (not shown) is disposed under a longitudinal axis of the base 109. Additionally, one or more adjusting members (not shown) can be used to lift the base 109 of the present invention. The adjustable member (not shown) will preferably lift the base 109 approximately 15 degrees or more from the horizontal, but may be less than 15 degrees without varying from the scope of the invention. The adjusting member (not shown) can be formed by use of any motorized, pneumatic, hydraulic or other method. The adjusting member, for example, comprises a first support defining a first hole; second support defining a second hole; the second support telescopically connected to the first support; and a pin insertable in the first hole and the second hole when the first hole and second hole are in alignment. Alternatively, the adjusting member includes, for example, a shaft defining a first recess; said base defining a second recess adapted to receive the shaft; a pin selectively insertable in the first recess and the second recess when the first recess and second recess are in alignment. Optionally, the base may be further comprised of a lower support and an upper support, wherein the lower support and the upper support are hingeably connected. Such a connection can be made by the use of a hinge.

In accordance with the instant invention, a hinge 117 may be used to permit the platform(s) (105 or 107) to rotate freely along a fixed axis in a downward and upward motion as the compressive forces of a person jumping or bouncing are acted upon the device. The hinge 117 could be of sufficient width, length and thickness to accommodate and support the size of the platform(s) (105 or 107) with athletic activity being performed. In the exemplary embodiment, the hinge 117 may be composed of a continuous rigid yet semi flexible vulcanized, masticated and molded rubber product or similar flexible material that permits pivotal movement of the platform, yet secures the platforms (105 or 107) at the desired position. Furthermore, the hinge 117 would be very durable and operate quietly without maintenance. The hinge 117 may be connected to the interior portion of each platform (105 or 107). The hinge 117 can be constructed so that it secures the platforms (105 or 107) to the midframe 113 using suitable hardware intended for this purpose. Locating the pivot axis at the base of the exercise device allows for a progressively greater rebound as one jumps further up the platform (105 or 107). Alternatively, the hinge 117 could comprise of a plurality of hinges spaced along the pivotable portion of the platform (not shown) or one continuous hinge coupled along the pivotable portion of the platform. The hinge 117 may be any material or configuration that performs the desired requirement of pivoting about an axis and securing the platforms (105 or 107) to the dual inclined exercise device 100.

Additionally, the hinge 117 can be configured to create spacing between the first and second platforms (105 or 107). The width of the hinge 117 can be varied and accordingly, the distance between the first and second platforms (105 or 107) can be varied. A larger width hinge 117 will result in the first and second platforms (105 or 107) being spaced further apart. Alternatively, utilizing a smaller width hinge 117 will result in a narrow space between the first and second platforms (105 or 107).

Any number of above-described components may preferably be used alone or in conjunction with each other in any configuration to achieve the desired function of the exercise device. The adjustability and versatility of these components allow for ease of use and upgrades.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention. While there had been shown and described fundamental features of the invention as applied to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood that omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the disclosed invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Moreover, the scope of the present invention covers conventionally known, future developed variations and modifications to the components described herein as would be understood by those skilled in the art. 

1. A dual inclined exercise device, comprising: a first compressible element; a second compressible element; a first platform disposed over the first compressible element, the first platform having an interior portion and an exterior portion, wherein the first platform is downwardly inclined towards the interior portion; and a second platform disposed over the second compressible element, the second platform having an interior portion and an exterior portion, wherein the second platform is downwardly inclined towards the interior portion of the second platform, and the interior portion of the second platform is adjacent to the interior portion of the first platform.
 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second platform is a semi-rigid platform.
 3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the interior portion of the first platform has an interior edge.
 4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the interior portion of the second platform has an interior edge.
 5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exterior portion of the first platform has an exterior edge.
 6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exterior portion of the second platform has an exterior edge.
 7. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a shock absorbing layer disposed on a surface of at least one of the first and second platforms.
 8. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second platform is downwardly inclined towards the inner portion at 15-25 degrees relative to the horizontal.
 9. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second compressible element is a ball.
 10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second compressible element is an air spring.
 11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second compressible element is a compression coil spring.
 12. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second compressible element is a tension spring.
 13. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a restraining element connected to at least one of the first and second platform;
 14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the restraining element further comprises a restraining strap; and a bracket attached to at least one of the first and second platform, the bracket adapted to receive the restraining strap.
 15. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a base having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first and second compressible element are respectfully disposed between the first portion and the second portion of the base.
 16. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a base having a compressible element support, wherein at least one of the first and second compressible element is disposed on the compressible element support.
 17. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the interior portion of the first platform has a first pivotable area and the interior portion of the second platform has a second pivotable area, and further comprising a base having a midframe hingeably connected to at least one of the first and second pivotable area.
 18. The exercise device of claim 17, wherein the midframe is pivotably attached at the first and second pivotable areas by a plurality of hinges.
 19. The exercise device of claim 17, wherein the base further comprises a perimeter frame, wherein the perimeter frame is coupled to the midframe.
 20. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a base having a non-slip component connected to a bottom surface of the base.
 21. The exercise device of claim 15, further comprising an adjusting member disposed under a longitudinal axis of the base.
 22. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein the adjusting member comprises a shaft defining a first recess; said base defining a second recess adapted to receive the shaft; a pin selectively insertable in the first recess and the second recess when the first recess and second recess are in alignment.
 23. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a hinge coupled to the first and second platform, wherein the first and second platform can be separated at a predetermined distance by the hinge.
 24. An inclined exercise device, comprising a first rebounding component; a platform disposed over the rebounding component, the platform having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the platform is downwardly inclined to the lower portion.
 25. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the platform is a semi-rigid platform.
 26. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a base hingeably connected to the lower portion of the platform.
 27. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a shock absorbing layer disposed on a surface of the platform.
 28. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the upper portion of the platform is angled towards the inner portion at approximately 15-25 degrees.
 29. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the rebounding component is a ball.
 30. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the rebounding component is an air spring.
 31. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the rebounding component is a compression coil spring.
 32. The exercise device of claim 24, wherein the rebounding component is a tension spring.
 33. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a restraining component connected to the platform.
 34. The exercise device of claim 25, wherein the restraining component further comprises a restraining strap; and a bracket attached to at the platform, the bracket adapted to receive the restraining strap.
 35. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a base, wherein the base further comprises a rebounding component support, wherein the rebounding component is disposed on the rebounding component support.
 36. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a base, wherein the base further comprises a non-slip component connected to a bottom surface of the base.
 37. The exercise device of claim 24, further comprising a base having a first edge and a second edge, the base having a wheel coupled to the first edge and a handle coupled to the second edge. 